What’s Happening?
Queensland is introducing new safety checks for existing legal e-bikes, with owners facing a compliance deadline of 28 February 2027.
The Electrically Power-Assisted Cycle (EPAC) Assurance Scheme began rolling out on 2 November 2026. It gives eligible devices a pathway to meet safety requirements and obtain permanent compliance labels.
The scheme forms part of the Queensland Government’s wider e-mobility reforms. It aims to support legitimate e-bike owners while excluding dangerous devices from the compliance process.
Why It Matters
The reforms draw a distinction between electric bicycles that meet Queensland’s requirements and unsafe, high-powered alternatives.
Department of Transport and Main Roads Land Transport Safety & Regulation General Manager Joanna Robinson explained the limits of the scheme.
“Dangerous, high-powered and high-speed devices will not be eligible.
She also highlighted the importance of electric bicycles for everyday transport.
“For many Queenslanders an e-bike is an important way of getting around, and this scheme provides certainty for people who invested in a legitimate device.
The scheme therefore offers existing owners a way to check their devices without assuming every electric-powered bicycle qualifies.
Local Impact
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will introduce inspections through trained bicycle retailers across Queensland. However, services will become available in phases rather than launching at every location simultaneously.
The Department is working with Bicycle Industries Australia to expand the network. It also says other options will be available for rural and remote riders who cannot access an authorised retailer.
Key Points
- $70 fee cap: Inspection and labelling charges cannot exceed this amount under the scheme.
- Adapted mobility: Eligible e-bikes and e-trikes designed or modified for people with disabilities or medical conditions can also seek compliance.
- Permanent labels: Eligible devices that pass inspection will receive labels for continued legal public use.
Zoom In
Trained bicycle retailers will assess eligible electric bicycles against key safety requirements. The inspection process provides a way for existing owners to establish whether their devices meet the scheme’s conditions.
Robinson described the approach as a practical option for riders.
“The EPAC Assurance Scheme is a practical pathway for riders to have their existing e-bike inspected, labelled and to continue riding it legally,” Ms Robinson said.
Bicycle Industries Australia General Manager Peter Bourke said bicycle businesses could also assist owners with the new requirements.
“Bicycle Industries Australia is pleased to support the program, which will help e-bike owners understand whether their bike meets the Queensland requirements and gives bicycle businesses an opportunity to provide practical assistance.”
Zoom Out
The Queensland Government is also adding e-mobility education to its existing learner driver programs.
During November 2026, PrepL and PrepL Supervisor modules will receive updated information about safe riding and legal e-mobility devices. The content will also cover sharing roads and paths with other users.
PrepL is the online course used to obtain a learner licence.
Bourke welcomed measures aimed at helping riders access suitable electric bicycles.
“Safe and compliant e-bikes are a fantastic transport solution, and Bicycle Industries Australia strongly supports measures that help riders access products that are safe, legal and fit for purpose,” Mr Bourke said.
What To Look For Next?
The Department will continue working with Bicycle Industries Australia as the inspection network grows across Queensland.
Meanwhile, learner driver education updates will roll out during November 2026.
